Event Planner Salary in Joliet, IL
Event Planners in Joliet, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $31.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,240.00 per week, $5,373.33 per month, and $64,480.00 per year.
The demand for Event Planners in Joliet is growing positively at about 7% per year, indicating a healthy increase in opportunities and industry expansions in event management and coordination services.
How Much Does an Event Planner Make in Joliet, IL?
The salary of an Event Planner in Joliet varies based on experience and expertise. Below is an overview of pay scales across different experience levels to help you gauge earning potential.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $28.00 | $1,120.00 | $4,853.33 | $58,240.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $31.00 | $1,240.00 | $5,373.33 | $64,480.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.00 | $1,360.00 | $5,866.67 | $70,720.00 |
Do Event Planners in Joliet Earn Tips?
Event Planners typically do not earn tips as their compensation is generally based on salary or project fees. Their work primarily involves planning and coordination rather than direct service roles that earn gratuities.
Event Planner Salary in Joliet vs. National Average
Nationally, Event Planners earn an average of about $24.78 per hour, which corresponds to roughly $51,542.40 annually.
Comparing this to Joliet's figures, Event Planners in this city tend to earn noticeably more, with an hourly wage of $31.00 and an annual salary of around $64,480.00. This difference reflects the local market demand and cost of living variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Joliet for Event Planners
Event Planners can find better pay in some nearby areas:
- Downtown Joliet: $32.00 per hour
- Cathedral Area: $31.50 per hour
Those working in Downtown Joliet generally receive slightly higher hourly wages compared to neighboring locales, making it an attractive option for professionals in the field.
What Influences an Event Planner’s Salary in Joliet?
Several key factors influence the salary of an Event Planner in Joliet:
- Experience Level: More experienced Event Planners typically command higher salaries due to proven skills in managing complex events.
- Skills and Certifications: Expertise in budgeting, vendor negotiation, and event marketing can boost earning potential.
- Type of Employer: Event Planners working for large corporate firms or prestigious venues often earn more than those at smaller companies or freelance roles.
- Size and Complexity of Events: Managing large-scale or high-profile events can lead to higher pay compared to smaller gatherings.
- Local Market Demand: Demand for event coordination services in Joliet influences salary levels and opportunities.
How To Become an Event Planner in Joliet
Starting a career as an Event Planner in Joliet involves several steps to prepare and gain qualifications:
- Education: Consider enrolling in programs like the Event Planning Certificate at Joliet Junior College or the Hospitality Management Program at the University of St. Francis to gain foundational knowledge in event coordination and hospitality.
- Professional Certifications: Obtaining credentials such as the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) or the Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) can enhance career prospects and demonstrate expertise.
- Experience: Seek internships or entry-level roles in event coordination to build practical skills and industry contacts.
Top Employers Hiring Event Planners in Joliet
The following organizations are prominent employers of Event Planners in the Joliet area:
- Harrah's Joliet Hotel & Casino
- Hollywood Casino Joliet
- Joliet Area Historical Museum
Establishments That Event Planners in Joliet Work At
Event Planners in Joliet work across various establishments, and these settings can impact salary levels:
- Hotels and Casinos: Such as Harrah's and Hollywood Casino, often offer higher salaries due to the scale and frequency of events.
- Historical Venues and Museums: Provide unique event opportunities and may offer varied salary structures depending on the events hosted.
- Corporate and Conference Centers: Demand skilled planners for business events, sometimes with competitive compensation packages.
- Wedding and Banquet Halls: These venues often require dedicated Event Planners, with earnings influenced by the event's size and client budgets.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Joliet for Event Planners
If you are interested in careers related to event planning, you may consider roles that share similar skills and industry overlap.
These include Event Coordinator, Event Manager, and Restaurant Manager positions, which involve overlapping skills in organization, management, and hospitality operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Event Planners in Joliet
Event Planners should be aware of pertinent labor laws and tax obligations:
- U.S. Department of Labor (federal website) provides federal employment regulations and wage information.
- Illinois Department of Employment Security (state website) offers resources related to state labor laws and unemployment benefits.
- City of Joliet Official Website (local government website) includes local employment ordinances and business guidelines.